VERMONT – The quiet town of Coventry, Vermont, was thrust into tragedy this week after a routine traffic stop turned deadly, claiming the life of U.S. Border Patrol Agent David “Chris” Maland. The incident, which unfolded on Monday afternoon along Interstate 91, Authorities have identified 21-year-old Teresa Youngblut of Washington State as the second suspect in the fatal shooting.
According to an eight-page FBI affidavit unsealed Thursday in U.S. District Court in Burlington, Youngblut has been charged with the intentional use of a deadly weapon while forcibly assaulting a federal law enforcement officer and discharging a firearm during an assault. The affidavit paints a chilling picture of the events that led to Agent Maland’s death, a man described by colleagues as a devoted officer who served his country with honor.
The tragedy began when Agent Maland conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2015 Toyota Prius with North Carolina license plates. The vehicle had been flagged in a lookout alert, prompting Maland to act. As two additional Border Patrol vehicles arrived on the scene, the situation escalated rapidly. Youngblut and her companion, 30-year-old German national Felix Baukholt, were both armed at the time of the stop. Without warning, Youngblut allegedly opened fire, striking Maland in the neck. Baukholt attempted to draw his firearm but was shot and killed by responding Border Patrol agents. Maland was rushed to North Country Hospital in Newport, where he was pronounced dead.
The loss of Agent Maland has sent ripples of grief through the Border Patrol community and beyond. Colleagues remember him as a kind-hearted and courageous individual who always put others first. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day, often in the line of duty.
The FBI affidavit reveals that Youngblut and Baukholt had been under surveillance by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) since January 14. Their behavior had raised red flags, beginning with a report from a hotel clerk in Lyndonville who grew concerned after the suspects checked in wearing tactical gear, with Youngblut openly carrying a firearm. Investigators tracked their movements, including a visit to a Walmart in Newport on January 20, where Baukholt was seen purchasing aluminum foil and wrapping unknown objects inside their vehicle. Days earlier, on January 19, the pair had been spotted walking in downtown Newport in similar tactical attire, both visibly armed.
The details of the case have left many questioning how such a tragedy could unfold in their quiet corner of the country. For the residents of Coventry and the surrounding areas, the shooting has shattered the sense of safety they once took for granted. For Maland’s family, it has left an unimaginable void.
As the legal process unfolds, the community has come together to honor Agent Maland’s memory. Vigils have been held, and flags fly at half-mast as a tribute to his service and sacrifice. While the charges against Youngblut bring a measure of accountability, they offer little solace to those who knew and loved Maland.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, one thing remains clear: Agent David “Chris” Maland’s legacy will endure. His bravery and dedication to protecting others will not be forgotten, and his loss will serve as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those who wear the badge. As the community mourns, they also stand united in gratitude for his service and in solidarity with his family during this unimaginably difficult time.